I like to read about new book deals. Publishers Lunch, a freebie that I get in my in-box each day, has blurbs about which story sold to which publisher as well as the literary agency that represents it.  As I read about what will be published within the next year, I think of my own novel ideas.  Some are whimsical, others more serious, and many of them don’t last long.  I like it when I’m inspired by another book’s premise to launch my own. However, there are other ways to obtain fodder for your novels and articles. So grab your pen and pad.  Let’s see where we can find some inspiration for upcoming factual or fiction creations.

1).  Read the newspaper. Even if you don’t subscribe to one, go online or head to the library and read the paper.  As you peruse the local news, jot down stories that are meaningful to you.  We are fortunate enough to get a freebie paper that has letters to the editor, events held around town, and human-interest stories.  Recently, I read about a woman who suffers from Cushing Syndrome and her desire to help handicapped girls and boys in our area enjoy a formal dance.  The community jumped on the bandwagon to donate time and money so that those who might not feel comfortable at a typical high school prom with their peers can celebrate a fun evening in an accepting environment.

2).  Subscribe to a writers magazine. WritersWeekly and Writing for Dollars are both free.  (Are you starting to get the picture that I thrive on FREE?)  Each week, these publications provide information on the ropes of writing for money.  In addition, you can see what markets are out there.  Are you a gardener?  Care to write about it?  There are numerous magazines that could use your expertise and these, and other publications, help to link you to a variety of markets.

3).  Talk with friends.  The next time you have a cup of coffee with a friend, listen to what moves her, drives her, and even annoys her.  What circumstances does she face?  Children who cut class and spend time in the principal’s office?  A hostile boss?  A family inheritance gone badly?  See how you can form a story around one or more of the topics the two of you discuss.

4).  Watch a DVD. Either during or after you watch a movie—whether it be a chick-flick or a western—jot down key words to remind yourself later what was impressive about the movie.  As you reflect on the story, ask yourself:  Did you like this particular film?  What made it endearing?  How could it have been improved?  Study the conflict and the plot to see how it all came together to provide entertainment.

5).  Turn on the news.  Similar to reading the newspaper, stories that happen in our town and country can inspire.  Let your mind wander as you do laundry, wash dishes and drive children to and from school so that you can spin off on these newsworthy events and create something of your own.

As you open your mind to looking for ideas, they will come to you.  See what is worthy of being fleshed out.  Make sure each topic you chose holds your interest so that you can create that article or plan away on that novel.

Until next time,

~ Alice

Alice J. Wisler writes inspirational fiction from her home in Durham, NC.  She’s the author of RAIN SONG, HOW SWEET IT IS, HATTERAS GIRL and A WEDDING INVITATION. She also teaches grief-writing workshops both online and at conferences.